This Chicken Carbonara Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying! Tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich sauce make it a comforting meal that everyone loves.
I can’t help but smile when I see it on my dinner table. It’s super easy to whip up, and the flavor is like a warm hug. Perfect for weeknights! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine are traditional, but feel free to use penne or fettuccine if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure it’s a type that holds sauce well!
Chicken: You can substitute chicken thighs for juicier meat. Also, if you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut—just shred it and throw it in at the end.
Bacon: For a twist, try pancetta or turkey bacon. Both add great flavor but will change the dish’s overall taste profile slightly, so choose based on your preference.
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or even Greek yogurt can be used, but this may affect the creaminess slightly. Just adjust to your liking!
How Do I Make Sure the Sauce Is Creamy and Not Scrambled Eggs?
The trick to achieving that perfect creamy sauce is all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your pasta is hot but not boiling when you add the egg mixture to it. This helps cook the eggs gently, creating a creamy texture rather than scrambling them.
- Toss the pasta rapidly after adding the egg mixture. This ensures even coating and helps to create that luscious sauce you’re after.
- If your sauce does start to thicken too much, don’t panic! Gradually add your reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
By following these tips, you’ll have a delicious Chicken Carbonara that’s creamy and satisfying every time!
How to Make Chicken Carbonara Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Carbonara Pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, but special enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining!
2. Cook the Bacon:
While your pasta cooks, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook it until crispy, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess fat.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In the same skillet, with a little bit of the bacon fat left, add the chicken pieces. Season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and let them cook over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are cooked through and nicely golden brown. In the last minute, toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Once cooked, take the skillet off the heat.
4. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese until you have a creamy mixture. This will be your delicious sauce!
5. Combine Everything:
Add the hot drained pasta to the skillet with the cooked chicken (make sure it’s off the heat). Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta. Toss everything together rapidly to coat the noodles and create a creamy sauce. If you find the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until it’s just how you like it!
6. Add the Bacon:
Now stir in your crispy bacon pieces and mix well. Taste your carbonara and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve it Up:
It’s time to dig in! Serve your Chicken Carbonara Pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Enjoy your creamy and comforting Chicken Carbonara Pasta! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti and linguine are the traditional choices, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary based on the pasta you choose!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Just mix it in slowly to avoid curdling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. Stir occasionally for even heating!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and bacon. You can substitute in sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to keep it tasty!